At the recent launch of the 2025 National Emancipation Celebration Observance program, the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) unveiled a robust lineup of events and activities under the theme: “Understanding Our Past to Create a Pathway for the Future.”
The event, held at Anchorage Car Park, Jn Baptiste Street, Castries, was attended by several key government officials and representatives, including Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, Minister for Tourism and Creative Industries Dr. Ernest Hilaire, members of the Diplomatic Corps, and CDF staff.
In this bold new three-year cycle (2025-2027), the CDF, in collaboration with partners, is committed to showcasing powerful stories of heritage, dynamic arts displays, educational initiatives, and multi-generational engagement that will deepen public consciousness and elevate the island’s shared legacy.
The CDF is resolute in its mission to strengthen Saint Lucia’s cultural expressions and honor the significance of emancipation through meaningful community engagement.
“This is not just a theme; it is a call to action,” declared CDF Executive Director Raymona Henry-Wyne. “We must connect our history to our purpose.”
Henry-Wyne emphasized the need to transform memory into movement, recognizing that the country’s progress depends on the understanding of its journey: “Emancipation is not merely a date on the calendar; it forms a vital part of our identity. We exist to preserve culture and to build cultural capacity, raise awareness, and change mindsets.”
She asserted, “What is freedom if people lack the tools to express it? What is emancipation if we remain confined by systems of dependency and silence?”
Moreover, the CDF’s strategies for cultural development include training and equipping artists, creatives, and community leaders to become agents of change.
Henry-Wyne pointed out the importance of instilling cultural confidence in our youth through stories, traditions, and platforms that authentically represent them.
“This is the pathway we are forging, grounded in the resilience of our ancestors and driven by the possibilities of today,” she stated.
Emphasizing the significance of this journey to freedom, she highlighted that it reflects “survival and strength,” affirming that this work is ongoing, both personal and national, and ultimately rests in our hands.
Dr. Hilaire acknowledged the CDF’s impactful role in igniting passion and interest in emancipation celebrations. He recalled the renewed focus in 2021, which was centered on the theme: “Rekindling Our Consciousness,” urging Saint Lucians to reflect on the meaning and significance of Emancipation.
“The best way to build a prosperous future for our people is to understand the context of our existence,” he asserted.
In recent years, the celebration has gained additional dimensions, showcasing the vibrant cultural expressions of drama groups, youth organizations, dancers, and creative performers.
The calendar of events is as follows:
– July 28 to August 8
– Island-wide: Our Stories: Emancipation Theatre Outreach
– July 28 – NTN: Emancipation Lecture
– July 31 – Jn. Baptiste Street: The Lightning Ceremony of Emancipation Murals
– July to August
– NTN: Thought-Provoking Panel Discussions
– August 1
– Islandwide: Sounding of the Bells
– NTN: Rebroadcast of Emancipation Lecture
– Islandwide: Rose-A-Cade Motorcade
– Mass Dance, Mini-Street Parade and Concert
– Anglican Church Annex – Breadfruit Festival
– August 4
– NTN: Documentary of Street Names
– August 9 – Market Steps: Marcus Garvey Market Day & Exhibition in collaboration with ICAR
– Iyanola Council for the Advancement of Rastafari
– August 16 – Gros Islet to Soufriere: Emancipation Historical Treasure Hunt
– August 18 – Press Conference: History Curriculum in Schools
– August 21 and 22
– NTN: Emancipation: A Youth Debate
– August 23 – Dennery: Conversations on Legacy, The Bust of Petronille Dwine
– August 30 – Laborie: La Woz Gwan Fet
Additionally, the CDF was established on April 1, 2002 (CDF ACT OF 2000) to align the aspirations of cultural and creative individuals, groups, communities, policymakers, and civil society through the implementation of the National Cultural Policy of Saint Lucia.
We are dedicated to sustaining traditions while fostering innovation in all forms of cultural expression. CDF exists to champion both the business and the cultural dimensions of our society.